Unveiling geographical layouts and synergies of large-scale wind and solar power deployment in China

The spatiotemporal dynamics and synergistic relationship between wind and solar power deployment are crucial for China’s energy transition and carbon neutrality goals. Using spatial autocorrelation analysis and spatial econometrics modeling, this study examines the spatiotemporal characteristics of wind and solar power in China, investigates their synergistic relationship, and identifies the primary factors driving their deployment. The results reveal that the installed capacity of both wind and solar power in China increased substantially between 2014 and 2023, with spatial distributions exhibiting marked heterogeneity. Wind power was concentrated in North and East China, while solar power installations were primarily located in East and Northwest China. Compared with 2014, the distribution of wind and solar power installations became more dispersed by 2023, with spatial clustering weakening. At the regional level, solar installations, electricity consumption, and thermal power generation have significant positive effects on wind power installations, whereas resident population size and financial health status have negative effects. Furthermore, variables from neighboring provinces demonstrate notable spatial spillover effects, with wind and solar power deployment exhibiting strong synergies both within and across regions. This study provides comprehensive policy insights for realizing the Sustainable Development Goals and China’s dual objectives of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, while supporting the global green transition and the advancement of a low-carbon economy.